Swallowing or ingesting drugs

Swallowing drugs causes the slowest onset of drug effects. The high will be felt often around 20-30 minutes after swallowing. Swallowing has the least intense effects of all methods of taking drugs.

The advantage of swallowing is that the effects last longer and the comedown is easier. Drugs are often swallowed in the form of pills or dissolved in liquid. They can also be wrapped in a small piece of tissue or smoking paper and swallowed (“parachuting”).

Key Messages

Know the Risks

Swallowing drugs has the fewest risks of all the methods of taking drugs. But it still has risks.

• Ingesting (swallowing/eating) can lead to overdose depending on amount of drug and personal tolerance.

• Rubbing some drugs like meth into the tongue or gums can lead to mouth ulcers.

• Swallowing drugs can be hard on the stomach for people who have ulcers or other digestive problems.

Control the Dose

Knowing the amount of drug is important to avoid health risks. Since it takes longer to feel the drug effect, don’t take too much at first. Also don’t re-dose too quickly as it could lead to overdose.

The drugs can be weaker or stronger than expected. Sometimes it can even be a different substance. Allowing time to feel the effects will help you determine the right amount to take.

Minimizing Side Effects

Eating something before swallowing drugs will help reduce stomach problems.

Prepare Your Own

Always prepare your own drugs for safety.